Boehringer Ingelheim building research centre for 500 pigs

Animal health company Boehringer Ingelheim has started the construction of a new animal research centre in Kirchrode, not far from Hanover, Germany, the German newspaper Hannoversche Zeitung reported.

The official kick-off of the construction was carried out last week and attended by 250 people, although fundaments and some walls had already been constructed.

The €40 million research centre, which will include a laboratory for animal vaccines, is planned to be ready by the end of 2011. As from the beginning of 2012, approximately 50 scientists and other employees will be working here.

Animals
The complex will consist of 16 animal compartments, for in total a maximum of 500 pigs and for maximal 100 cattle too.

Although located 600 metres away from residential areas, the construction of the animal research centre roused some protest from citizens, uncertain of the consequence of the research centre. The animal health company, however, has assured that correct disinfection procedures, strict transport routes and sophisticated odour treatment will be put in place.